Bringing Soulful Drum and Bass to Sheffield: It Hertz Launches this Weekend

A brand-new drum and bass event is making waves in Sheffield this weekend, promising to infuse soulful rhythms into the heart of the Steel City. It Hertz: Launch Courtyard Day Party is set to take place on Saturday, May 16, at the vibrant Southbank Warehouse. This initiative aims to be a welcoming space for soul-centered drum and bass enthusiasts in a city renowned more for its indie rock lineage than its electronic music scene.

Event Details and Atmosphere

The It Hertz day party is scheduled to run from 4 PM to 11 PM in the Southbank Warehouse courtyard, creating an inviting atmosphere for music lovers to gather. The event will feature an array of local talent, including artists like Displace, Overtone, and AFEX. Attendees can expect an engaging blend of sounds paired with food vendors and a diverse selection of drinks. Importantly, the event boasts “an exceptional sound system” that promises to elevate the listening experience.

A Vision for Soulful Drum and Bass

Alex Whitham, the 26-year-old owner of It Hertz and mastermind behind the event, elaborates on the evening’s offerings. “At this event, you can expect to hear soulful drum and bass from a whole variety of eras,” he shares. “Regardless, it will feel warm, atmospheric, and nostalgic.” His passion for the genre shines through, as he aspires to shift perceptions of drum and bass, seeing it as a more universally appealing style of music.

Sheffield’s Diverse Musical Heritage

While Sheffield may be more famous for bands like the Arctic Monkeys and Pulp, the city has a significant electronic music history. Pioneering groups like Cabaret Voltaire and The Human League got their start there, and the support for independent venues like Southbank Warehouse has fostered a thriving underground music scene. These venues regularly host events that provide a platform for dance music, reinforcing the notion that Sheffield is certainly no stranger to bass-driven beats.

The Drum and Bass Landscape

Despite this rich musical tapestry, Sheffield hasn’t historically been known as a drum and bass stronghold, especially when compared to places like Walsall, which boasts famous DJs such as Andy C and Goldie. London has long held the title of the birthplace of drum and bass, leading to a somewhat niche appreciation of the genre in Sheffield.

However, Alex views It Hertz as a way to challenge the stigma sometimes attached to drum and bass. “I want to demonstrate a brand that allows for drum and bass to be viewed as something that’s more universally enjoyable,” he states, capturing his enthusiasm for broadening the genre’s appeal.

A Local Community Embracing Drum and Bass

While the local music scene may lean heavily towards indie rock and electronic dance genres, there has been a noticeable rise in interest in drum and bass. The Tuesday Club, based at the Sheffield Students’ Union, has hosted renowned drum and bass artists like Chase & Status and Sota, proving that there is a dedicated audience in the city for this rhythmic sound.

Alex’s motivation to start It Hertz stems from the vibrant community that already exists. “It’s clear there’s a passionate community of people who love getting together to listen to and play this kind of music,” he explains, underlining the shared affection for the genre among local fans.

Ticket and Event Information

For those eager to experience this soulful celebration of drum and bass, tickets for the Courtyard Day Party are available through this link, currently at final release. Priced at £10, it’s an affordable opportunity to immerse oneself in an atmosphere dedicated to celebrating a dynamic genre making its mark in the Steel City.

So whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the drum and bass scene, It Hertz aims to share warmth, nostalgia, and an unforgettable musical experience right in the heart of Sheffield.